We are interested in taking some day trips on road bikes possibly along the Seine in Normandy and to visit gardens and chateaus in the Loire Valley, up to 40ish miles roundtrip per day. We don't need to join an organized ride per se (we feel comfortable exploring on our own) and will be doing a roundtrip so won't be needing someone to move our luggage. We're used to our nice carbon road bikes at home but wonder about the fit of a rental bike.
For those of you out there that have done such trips:
- Did you bring your helmet, cycling shoes and clips with you?
- Any suggestions for bike rental shops?
- Any routes that you particularly enjoyed?
Thanks in advance!